Langkawi Festivals

Chinese New Year (January/February) This is a joyous time when friends and relatives give each other "angpows" - red packets with a gift of cash as a token of prosperity and celebrate with feasts and lion dances to ward off evil spirits and usher in the lunar new year. Family reunion dinners are a must among Chinese on the eve of the new year.

National Day (31 August) The country celebrates it's independence on 31 August with parades and shows. Towns and cities throughout Malaysia will be gaily decorated and adorned with lights for the grand occasion.

Malaysia Fest (September) For two weeks, all the major hotels and shopping complexes join forces to feature the culture, cuisine and handicrafts of the various states in Malaysia.

Deepavali (October/November) The "Festival of Lights" is a celebration which marks the triumph of good over evil. During this festival, Hindu homes are emblazoned with lights to symbolize this triumph.

Christmas (25 December) Celebrated by Christians similar to any other part of the world. Midnight services are held at churches on Christmas eve. Shopping centres, hotels, old folks homes and children's homes echo with beautiful carols. The revelry and yuletide spirit of Christmas is enjoyed by Christians and non-Christians alike.

Hari Raya Aidil Fitri is celebrated by Muslims after the month-long Ramadan (fasting month). Muslims usher in the new year with prayers in the mosques followed by receiving well-wishers in their homes.

Public Holidays

Jan 01 - New Year's Day

Jan 08 & 09 - Hari Raya Puasa

Feb 05 & 06 - Chinese New Year

Feb 01 - Federal Territory Day (Kuala Lumpur and Labuan only)

Mar 16 - Hari Raya Haji

Apr 06 - Awal Muharram

May 01 - Workers' Day

May 18 - Wesak Day

Jun 03 - Birthday of Sri Paduka Baginda Yang di Pertuan Agong

Jul 15 - Birthday of Prophet Muhammad SAW

Aug 31 - National Day

Oct 28 - Deepavali (except in Sarawak and Labuan)

Dec 25 - Christmas

Dec 27 & 28 - Hari Raya Puasa